NAIROBI, Kenya– Cabinet Secretary nominee for Gender and Affirmative Action, Hanna Cheptumo, has called for a major shift in how survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) are supported, proposing that GBV reporting desks be relocated from police stations to hospitals.
During her vetting session before the National Assembly Committee on Appointments, Cheptumo argued that the current setup is failing survivors, especially women, who often feel unsafe or uncomfortable reporting sensitive cases in police environments dominated by male officers.
“Many survivors, particularly women, cannot open up at police stations especially when the officer handling the case is a man.We need to create safer spaces, and hospitals are better suited for this. Survivors can be treated, counseled, and file reports all in one place,”she said
The nominee remarks come amid growing concern over the country’s handling of GBV cases.
She noted that while some progress has been made, survivors are still falling through the cracks due to lack of psychosocial care and poor case follow-up.
“Without immediate medical and psychological support, these individuals return home traumatized. That’s why some contemplate or even commit suicide,” she added.
Cheptumo also pushed for legislative reforms, saying the Evidence Act must be revised to better capture the nuances of GBV cases.
“The law is too general. It doesn’t recognize gender-based violence distinctly. We need clarity so cases aren’t mishandled under unrelated provisions like homicide,” she said.
Cheptumo attributed much of the violence to patriarchal traditions that historically excluded women from property ownership and leadership.
She pledged to engage local leaders church elders, chiefs, and faith-based institutions as key allies in changing community attitudes.
“You don’t need a huge budget to create impact. Religious gatherings every Friday and Sunday already offer ready made platforms for education and advocacy,” she said.
Cheptumo also addressed the issue of early marriage, linking it to poverty and outdated customs that treat girls as economic assets.
“This is why education is key. We must integrate GBV awareness into the curriculum and keep girls in school even after pregnancy. TVETs and other institutions must support their journey,” she said.
On how to ensure male inclusion, particularly in light of the boychild debate, Cheptumo stressed the importance of engaging men as partners in change.
“Let’s bring men into the conversation. They need to be part of community development, table banking, and raising boys who understand gender equity. Patriarchy has harmed both women and men it’s time we tackled it together,” she said.
Cheptumo’s remarks were in response to pointed questions from legislators including Millie Odhiambo, Robert Mbui, and Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, who pressed her on policies to curb GBV, the enforcement of the two-thirds gender rule, and recent controversies in the education sector.
On the Butere Girls’ School incident, where non-staff were blocked from leading co-curricular activities, she said collaboration with the Ministry of Education will be key to developing policies that uphold student welfare while maintaining standards.
“So all you need to do is to have a proper engagement. And because the schools are run by an administration, it is for them to only ensure that they they check what is happening. And I’m not specific,on any issue,”the nominee stated.
